The Bristol Microscopists and the Cholera Epidemic of 1849

In 1849, Bristol suffered its second outbreak of cholera. Among those who rallied to counter it were members of the recently formed Bristol Microscopical Society.

Dr Whitfield profiles the members with particular attention to the three who reckoned to have found micro-organisms uniquely associated with the disease, and recreates an illuminating episode from the pioneer days of scientific medicine in the provinces.

About the Author

Michael Whitfield was Senior Lecturer in General Practice in the University of Bristol. In retirement he has devoted himself to the history of medical practice and practitioners in eighteenth- and nineteenth- century Bristol, and is the author of many ALHA books.